Statement [Made on Behalf of the Security Council, at the 5913th Meeting, 16 June 2008, in Connection with the Council's Consideration of the Item Entitled "the Situation in Chad, the Central African Republic and the Subregion"]
At the 5913th meeting of the Security Council, held on 16 June 2008, in connection with the Council’s consideration of the item entitled “The situation in Chad, the Central African Republic and the subregion”, the President of the Security Council made the following statement on behalf of the Council:
“The Security Council condemns in the strongest terms the attacks conducted by Chadian armed groups since 11 June 2008.
“The Security Council condemns all attempts at destabilization by force, and reiterates its commitment to the sovereignty, unity, territorial integrity and political independence of Chad. It demands that armed groups cease violence immediately and urges all parties to respect the Sirte agreement of 25 October 2007.
“The Security Council calls upon States in the region to implement their commitments under the Dakar Accord of 13 March 2008 and prior agreements, and to cooperate with a view to putting an end to the activities of armed groups in the region and their attempts to seize power by force.
“The Security Council conveys deep concern at the direct threat the activity of armed groups pose for the safety of the civilian population and the conduct of humanitarian operations, and urges all parties to comply fully with their obligations under international humanitarian law.
“The Security Council expresses its full support for the United Nations Mission (MINURCAT) and the European operation (EUFOR Chad/CAR) deployed in Chad and the Central African Republic to contribute to the protection of vulnerable civilian populations and to facilitate the provision of humanitarian assistance, and calls on all parties to guarantee the security and freedom of movement of their personnel and associated personnel.
“The Security Council encourages the Chadian authorities to persevere in promoting political dialogue, with respect for the constitutional framework, as initiated by the agreement of 13 August 2007.
“The Security Councils stands ready to consider appropriate measures against those groups and individuals who constitute a threat to the stability of the region or violate international humanitarian law.”
